Multi-play game of chance

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system that provide and/or process multi-featured games of chance. In one embodiment, it may be determined which game type from a plurality of available game types was selected in the multi-feature game of chance. The plurality of available game types include an N digit game, a N−1 digit game or a N−2 digit game. It may be determined which game option from a plurality of game options was selected in the multi-feature game of chance. Based on the selected game type and selected game option, it may be determined whether a selected set of digits on a ticket match a drawn set of digits. If the selected set of digits on the ticket match a drawn set of digits based on the selected game type and the selected game option, the ticket may be declared as a winning ticket.

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/475,908, filed Jun. 5, 2003, which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to games of chance. In particular,the present invention provides expanded features to games of chance.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Examples of games of chance include future draw lottery games,instant scratch off games and the like. Future draw lottery games permitplayers to pick or select numbers that may be drawn in the future by arandom number selection method. Numbers may be selected randomly bymechanical methods such as selection of items such as balls bearingnumeric designations and/or electronic means such as through a randomnumber generator, for example. If the selected numbers are drawn, theplayer may be awarded a prize. The amount of the prizes may be based on,for example, the odds of winning and/or other criteria.

[0004] In future draw games, a player may pick, for example, threenumbers for a three number drawing or a player may select 4 numbers fora 4 number drawing and so on. The player may select to play the numbersas straight (i.e., exact order) or box (i.e., any order) or acombination thereof. For example, if a player chooses the straightoption, a player may win if the numbers she selects in a three numberdrawing are drawn in the same order. However, if the player selects toplay the box option, a player may win if the numbers she selects in athree number drawing are drawn in any order. Of course, the box optionmay offer a higher chance of winning but the value of the prizes awardedmay be less. Nevertheless, the increased chances of winning may help tomaintain player interest and continued play.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for increased features ingames of chance where players are offered more flexibility and anincreased opportunity to win prizes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way ofexample, and not limitation, in the accompanying figures in which likereferences denote similar elements, and in which:

[0007]FIG. 1 is an interface that may facilitate play in amulti-featured game of chance in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0008]FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a lottery ticket inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the preset invention;

[0009]FIG. 3 is a table listing exemplary features of a game of chancein accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010]FIG. 4 illustrates features of the multi-featured game of chancein accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

[0011]FIG. 5 illustrates features of the multi-featured game of chancein accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

[0012]FIG. 6 is flowchart in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention;

[0013]FIG. 7 is a system block diagram in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention; and

[0014]FIG. 8 is flowchart in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Embodiments of the present invention may provide increasedfeatures, flexibility of play, and/or increased opportunities to win ingames of chance. Embodiments of the present invention provide a singlegame in which the players may be offered different play options and/oradditional opportunities to win prizes. Embodiments of the invention maybe presented as quick draw games that may be drawn several times a day.With increased opportunities for players to win prizes, embodiments ofthe present invention may increase value of the prizes, player interest,frequency of play, and thus, increasing revenues for some sponsorsand/or operators.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention may find application ingames of chance such as future-draw games in which a player selectsnumbers for a game that are to be drawn in the future. Although, thediscussion herein may refer to pick three games (i.e., a future drawgames in which three numbers may be drawn) and/or pick four games (i.e.,a future draw games in which four numbers may be drawn), it isrecognized that embodiments of the present invention may be applied toother types of future draw games and/or other types of games of chance.

[0017]FIG. 1 shows an interface 100 that may be used to play a game ofchance in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.Interface 100 may be used to select, for example, the type of one ormore games to play, the numbers to play and/or the corresponding wager(e.g., amount to bet). The interface 100 may be embodied in a paperdocument, a smart card, in a web site, or any other physical and/orelectronic medium. The interface 100 may be accessible via a PDA(personal digital assistance), a personal computer (PC), a televisionand/or any other device. For example, a user may access interface 100over the Internet, e-mail and/or via regular mail. A player may playselected numbers using a periodic subscription such as an hourly, daily,weekly, monthly and/or any other type of subscription.

[0018] In accordance with embodiment of the present invention, interface100 may include section 110, 120 and/or 130. As shown in FIG. 1, forexample, section 110 may be used by the player to select the type forgame to be played. For example, a player may chose a three (3) digitgame, a two (2) digit game, and/or a one (1) digit game by marking thecorresponding selection. It is recognized that section 110 may includeadditional types of games such as four digit games, five digit games,six digit games, etc. and or any combination thereof.

[0019] Although, only a single selection is shown, a player may selectmultiple games to be played, in accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention. For example, a player may select a three digit gameas well as a two digit game to be played by making multiple selection.However, if multiple games are played, the cost per play may beincreased, the bet price may increase and/or the prize awarded maydecrease in value. This may be done to offset the additional chances ofwinning a prize. In this example, the three digit selection may beplayed in “any order” (to be described below in more detail).

[0020] As further shown in FIG. 1, section 120 may be used to select thenumbers to be played in the type of game chosen in section 110. Asshown, a player may select a “quick-pick” option in which the numbersmay be randomly chosen for the player automatically or the player mayselect, for example, three number ranging from 0 to 9. It is recognizedthat additional columns may be added if other types of games such a asfour digit or five digit games are played. In this example, the playeror customer may play the numbers “384” by selecting the appropriateboxes, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0021] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, section130 may be used to select the wager amount (e.g., the bet price). Thebet price may or may not be the cost of the lottery ticket that theplayer may purchase. For example, the cost of the lottery ticket mayinclude an additional fee that may be charged to play the particulargame of chance. The fee may increase incrementally as multiple games areplayed using a single ticket.

[0022]FIG. 2 illustrates an example lottery ticket 200 that may begenerated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Itis recognized that lottery ticket 200 is given by way of example onlyand that a lottery ticket can be configured in any number of differentways. It is recognized that a lottery ticket may be embodied in a paperdocument, a smart card, or any other physical and/or electronicembodiment. For example, a player may obtain a lottery ticket and/orplay the game over the Internet, e-mail and/or via regular mail. Aplayer may play selected numbers using a periodic subscription such asan hourly, daily, weekly, monthly and/or any other type of subscription.The example lottery ticket 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be located on asubstrate, e.g., a printable substrate such as paper, card stock,plastic, or various laminates. Information may be found on both sides ofthe example lottery ticket.

[0023] Although the discussion herein relates to a future draw pooledgame, it is recognized that embodiments of the present invention may beapplied to other types of games of chance. As is known, in a future drawpooled game, a lottery ticket may represent a chance in a drawing to beheld at some later time for a pooled prize or prizes.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present invention, the lottery ticket 200may include a non-play area 220 and a play area 222. It is recognizedthat the non-play and play areas are used herein for descriptionpurposes only and are not limiting or exclusive. Information shown onthe ticket and/or described herein may be located anywhere on the ticketand is not limited to be located in a play or non-play area.

[0025] In this example, the non-play area 220 may include, for example,information not directly involved in the play of the game provided onthe ticket. Located on the non-play area may be instructions for playingthe extended play game or for the use and/or redemption of the ticketand/or information 212 related to the prize. The non-play area 222 mayalso include the name of the game such as “Global Games” 280 and/or thename such as “XYZ Lottery” 216 of, for example, one or morejurisdictions in which the lottery is played and/or the provider of thegame such as a state lottery.

[0026] In embodiments of the present invention, the non-play area 220may include a card identifier 214 that may identify the ticket. Theidentifier 214 may also identify game and/or type of ticket or anothernumber may be used for such identification. The identifier 214 mayinclude other information that may be used for authentication purposes.A machine-readable version 226 representing the numeric code of the cardidentifier 214 may also be included in the ticket 200. Themachine-readable version 226 may be a bar code, e.g., a stacked linearbar code or two-dimensional bar code. A standard 2 of 5 or otherstandard bar code may be employed. It will be appreciated that otherforms of machine-readable information may be included on the ticket, inplace of the bar codes, e.g., magnetic strips or smart card capability.

[0027] In embodiments of the present invention, the machine-readableversion 226 may be read via a scanner or the like and the informationmay be used to verify, for example, whether the ticket 200 is authenticand/or to determiner whether the ticket is a winning ticket. It isrecognized that the information may be entered manually via keyboard,touch screen, etc.

[0028] The lottery ticket 200 may also include logos or advertisinginformation. The lottery ticket may include other rules, legaldisclaimers, etc. that may be located on the front and/or the back ofthe lottery ticket. The lottery ticket 200 may also include date/timeinformation 218 that may relate to the date when the ticket 200 is validand/or the time of the drawing to which the ticket 200 pertains.

[0029] The play area 222 may include game information such as numbersthat may be selected and/or played for a particular drawing and/or thetype of game. For example, play area 222 may indicate whether the playerchooses to play the selected numbers “in order” or in “any order.” Ifthe player chooses the multiple games in a single play, the play area222 may include additional numbers.

[0030] As indicated above, the drawing may be a pick three (3) drawing,pick four (4) drawing, pick five (5), and/or another type of drawing. Inthis example, play area 222 may include pick three numbers such as X1,X2 and X3 that may be printed on the ticket, for example. It isrecognized that X1, X2 and/or X3 may be numerical integers from 0 to 9.Additionally or optionally, X1, X2, X3 may be other numbers, alphabetcharacters, pictures, other representations and/or any combinationthereof. For purposes of explanation, X1 may represent a number in thefirst position, X2 may represent a number in the second position and X3may represent a number in the third position, for example.

[0031] In embodiments of the present invention, when numbers for thelottery to which the ticket pertains are drawn, a player may win a prizeif, for example, the numbers X1, X2, X3 are drawn in the same order asthey appear in the play area 222, for example. Thus, if the numbers aredrawn in the position the numbers appear on the ticket, a prize may beawarded. If there is a match “in order,” the player may cash in theticket for the associated winning prize. In embodiments of the presentinvention, the player can win a prize if the numbers are drawn based onthe option chosen.

[0032] For example, a player may win a prize if the three numbers X1, X2and X3 are drawn in any order, if the “any order” option was selected.Thus, for example, if the numbers X2, X3 and X1 are drawn, in thatorder, the player can win a prize if she selected or played the numbersX1, X2 and X3, for example, if the “any order” option was selected.Accordingly, the player may be awarded a prize if the selected numbersare drawn in any order or any position.

[0033]FIG. 3 shows a table 300 in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention. Embodiments of the present invention may provide amulti-featured game that may provide multiple options to play and/or wina prize from a single pool. Table 300 illustrates the increased featuresthat may be included in the multi-featured game ticket that may beprovided, for example, in a pick 3 game, in accordance with embodimentsof the present invention. In table 300, column 310 lists examples of the“Match Options” or play options that a player may have when playing amulti-featured game of chance, for example, in accordance withembodiments of the present invention. Column 320 may include the “Oddsof Winning,” for the corresponding type of game played and columns330-370 may include an estimated prize associated with each bet oramount wagered.

[0034] It is recognized that the information given in table 300 is givenby way of example only and should be construed as limiting in any way.It is recognized that the values such as match options 310, odds ofwinning 330, prize awarded, etc., provided in the table 300, areprovided by way of example only for a pick 3 game. These values may varyfor different games such as a pick four, pick five and/or other types ofgames. It is recognized that table 300 may include other informationsuch as pay out percentages and/or any other information.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, a player may select aone digit game, a two digit game and/or a three digit game as shown insection 110 of interface 100. If the three digit game is chosen, aplayer may further select an “in order” option, or an “any order”option, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 4, an explanation will be provided for thevarious options and corresponding ways to win, in accordance withembodiments of the present invention. For example, with reference to box410, if the number “384” for example is played with the “in order”option selected, as referred to by 413, a player may win a prize if theexact three digits are drawn in order as shown in 418. Referring to box420, if a player plays the number “388” with the “any order option” asreferenced by 423, a prize may be awarded if the numbers shown in thelist presented in box 428 are drawn. In this case, out of the threenumbers selected, where two of the numbers are the same, these numberscan occur in any order and/or in any position, as shown in the list 428.Referring to box 430, if a player plays the number “384” with the “anyorder option” as referenced by 433, a prize may be awarded if thenumbers shown in the list presented in box 438 are drawn. In this case,the numbers can appear in any position and/or in any order as shown inthe list 438. Based on the amount wagered and the option chosen, acorresponding price can be determined from columns 330-370 of table 300.

[0037] In embodiments of the present invention, there may be two playoptions, for example, the “in order” and/or “any order” play options.There may be two prize categories such as “three way” and “six way.” Theprize category may be determined based on the numbers picked by theplayer. For example, if all the three numbers picked by the player areunique, then the prize category is “six way” since there are six ways towin. If, however, a number is duplicated, then the prize category is“three ways” since three only three ways to win.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 5, the two digit and one digit games will nowbe described, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.If the player plays the two digit “in order” game, the player can win aprize if the selected two digits are drawn in the same order. If, asshown in box 510, a player selects the numbers 3 and 4 as referenced by510, the player can win a corresponding prize if the same numbers aredrawn in order as shown in 515. Based on the amount wagered and theoption chosen, a corresponding price can be determined from columns330-370 of table 300.

[0039] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, box 520illustrates how a player can win prizes playing a one digit and/or twodigit any order game. If a player plays the one digit “any order” game,the player can win a prize if the selected digit is drawn in anyposition. If, as shown in box 523, a player selects the number 4 asreferenced by 524, the player can win a corresponding prize if the samenumber is drawn in any location as shown in list 525. If a player playsthe two digit “any order” game, the player can win a prize if theselected digits are drawn in any order. If, as shown in box 527, aplayer selects the numbers 3 and 4 as referenced by 526, the player canwin a corresponding prize if the same numbers are drawn in any order asshown in list 528. Similar to the above, based on the amount wagered andthe option chosen, a corresponding price can be determined from columns330-370 of table 300.

[0040] In embodiments of the present invention, a player may choose toplay a multi-play game in which the player can pick, for example, threenumbers and may win a prize under any of the various option describedabove. For example, if the player selects three digits and selects themulti-play option, the player can win a prize if the three digit aredrawn in order or in any order. If the player is unsuccessful under thethree digit option, the player may still win a prize if two of the threedigits selected by the player are drawn in order or in any order, or ifone of the three digits selected is drawn in any order. It is recognizedthat an additional fee may be incurred to play the multi-play gameand/or the corresponding prizes awarded for the multi-play option may bedecreased, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a multi-featuredgame that may include additional features, more opportunities to play,increased values of prizes awarded and/or increased chances for playersto win prizes. In embodiments of the present invention, a player may beable to play multiple games in a single ticket and/or play. For example,a multi-featured pick three game may include a pick three, pick twoand/or pick one game all in a single game. In another example, amulti-featured pick four game may include a pick four, a pick three, apick two, and/or a pick one game all rolled into a single game.Embodiments of the present invention may be applied to other types ofgames. In embodiments of the present invention, multiple prizes may beawarded for a single set of numbers selected in a multi-play optiongame.

[0042] As described above, a player may purchase a multi-play option foran additional fee when purchasing her game ticket. Thus, the payer maybe given additional options to win prizes for a fee as described herein.It is also recognized that the multi-play option may be included withthe ticket at no additional cost.

[0043] Because of the increased opportunities to win and/or play,embodiments of the present invention may be highly effective as quickdraw game that may be drawn every hour, every half-hour, and/or severaltimes in an hour such as a monitor game. It is recognized that drawingsmay be held using mechanical methods such as selection of ping-pongballs bearing numeric designations. Additionally and/or optionally,electronic means such as random number generators maybe used to selectwinning numbers. It is recognized that winning numbers may be selectedby a local stand alone device and/or may be selected at a centrallocation that may be broadcast using broadcast signals, Internet, and/orany other means of communications.

[0044]FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method in accordance withembodiments of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an exemplary blockdiagram of a multi-featured lottery system 700 in which embodiments ofthe present invention may find application. As shown in FIG. 7, aplurality of clients, for example, clients 761 to 763 may be coupled toa transit network 790. The system may further include one or moremulti-featured lottery or game management centers 711 and database 731containing multi-featured data such as data included in, for example,table 300. It is recognized that additional clients, databases,management centers, servers and/or other components or devices may beincluded in embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] In embodiments of the present invention, clients 761 to 763 maybe any type of public or private entities. For example, clients 761 to763 may be game ticket retailers, vendors grocery stores, game vendingmachines, monitors or televisions and/or any other entity or place wherelottery tickets may be purchased and/or to where lottery drawings may bebroadcast. Clients 761 to 763 may also be personal computers or otherdevices that may be used to purchase game tickets via, for example, theInternet.

[0046] Clients 761 to 763 may include for example scanners such asbarcode scanners or other types of input devices such as keyboards thatmay be used to enter and/or read data from the tickets. It is recognizedthat clients 761 to 763 may have other equipment or components tofacilitate communications with, for example, management center 711and/or other clients 761 to 763 over the transit network. It isrecognized that if a client 762, for example, is a lottery ticketvendor, the client 762 may have a lottery ticket machine that may beused to vend tickets, read information from the lottery tickets and/ormay communicate over the network 790. It is recognized that embodimentsof the invention may be incorporated within such lottery ticket machineor other client device.

[0047] In embodiments of the present invention, database 731 may includedata associated with the multi-feature game. Such data may include theplurality of multi-featured options provided for each type of game,associated prizes, odds, instructions of play, rules, percentage payouts, multi-play information and/or any other data associated with thegaming method in accordance with embodiments of the information.Database 731 may also include numbers from previous drawings and/orother information and/or statistics. Example of such information storedin database 731 is shown in the table 300, shown in FIG. 1. In somecases, clients may be able retrieve data directly from the database 731.The management center 711 may include one or more serves to processand/or update data stored in the database 731. Although a singledatabase is shown, additional databases may be included in system 700.

[0048] It is recognized that the databases as described herein such asthe authentication databases or any other databases may be configured asrelational databases, flat files, hierarchical databases, transactionalsystems, object oriented databases and/or any other type ofconfiguration.

[0049] Transit network 790 may be a communications network that mayinclude, for example, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), anIntegrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a cellular network, adigital mobile network, a Personal Communication Systems (PCS) network,an Internet, an intranet, a signaling system 7 (SS7) network, a localarea network (LAN), a satellite network, an advance intelligent network(AIN), any suitable digital or analog network, a broadband network suchas a cable network, any other suitable national and/or internationalcommunications network or any suitable combination thereof. It isrecognized that embodiments of the present invention may utilizemagnetic or optical media (e.g., hard drives, tapes, disks, etc.) tostore and/or transmit data. A retailer or client may process atransaction offline and may later send the information via a disk, tape,or other transmission media to an authentication center forauthentication.

[0050] In embodiments of the present invention, a client such as client761 may issue a ticket for a N-number game of chance to a player. TheN-number game of chance may be a pick three, pick four, pick five, etc.future game and/or another type of game. The game may be a multi-featuregame of chance, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.If available, the player may choose or may be give the multi-play optionthat may be indicated on the ticket. A drawing to select the winningnumbers may be held at a future time. The issued ticket may be receivedat one of the clients for redemption. Information may be read manuallyand/or automatically and the ticket may be processed in accordance withembodiments of the present invention to determine whether the ticket isa winning ticket and the value of a corresponding prize to be awardedfor the winning ticket. The information may be processed at themanagement center 711, at the client's location 761 to 763 and/orcombination of both.

[0051] It is recognized that the management center 711 and/or clients761 to 763 may be equipped with the appropriate hardware and/or softwareto process methods in accordance with embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, this may include computers, servers,communication devices, scanners and/or other devices and/or softwareprograms may be used to process game data as described herein.

[0052] In embodiments of the present invention, the system may determineif the game is a multi-featured game. Assuming that the multi-featuregame was played, the flow chart shown in FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplaryprocessing method that may be used to determine whether the issuedticket is a winning ticket based on the drawing and/or an associatedprize for the winning ticket. As shown in 605, it may be determinedwhether a 3 digit game was chosen. If a three digit game was chosen,then it may be determined whether the player choose an “in order” optionand whether the selected three digit numbers were drawn, as shown in607. If the “in order” option was chosen by the player and the selectednumbers were drawn in order, then the ticket may be declared as awinning ticket and a corresponding prize may be awarded, as shown in630. If the “in order” option was not chosen, it may be determinedwhether the “any order” option was chosen and whether selected numberswere drawn in any order, as shown in 609. In this case, the prizecategory may be determined based on the numbers picked by the player.For example, if all the three numbers picked by the player are unique,then the prize category is “six way” since there are six ways to win.If, however, a number is duplicated, then the prize category is “threeways” since three only three ways to win.

[0053] If the “any order” option was chosen by the player and theselected numbers were drawn in any order, then the ticket may bedeclared as a winning ticket and a corresponding prize may be awarded,as shown in 630. On the other hand, if the “any order” option waschosen, but the selected numbers were not drawn, the process may end, asshown in 609.

[0054] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, if the 3digit game was not chosen, it may be determined whether the two digitgame was chosen, as shown in 615. If a two digit game was chosen, thenit may be determined whether the player choose an “in order” option andwhether the selected two digit numbers were drawn, as shown in 617. Ifthe “in order” option was chosen by the player and the selected numberswere drawn in order, then the ticket may be declared as a winning ticketand a corresponding prize may be awarded, as shown in 640. If the “inorder” option was not chosen, it may me determined whether the “anyorder” option was chosen and whether selected numbers were drawn in anyorder, as shown in 619. If the “any order” option was chosen by theplayer and the selected numbers were drawn in any order, then the ticketmay be declared as a winning ticket and a corresponding prize may beawarded, as shown in 640. On the other hand, if the “any order” optionwas chosen, but the selected numbers were not drawn, the process mayend, as shown in 619.

[0055] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, if the 2digit game was not chosen, it may be determined whether the ticket is awinning ticket if the one digit game was chosen, as shown in 625. If theone digit game was chosen, then if the selected is drawn, then theticket may be declared as a winning ticket and a corresponding prize maybe awarded, as shown in 627 and 650. On the other hand, if the selectednumber was not drawn, the process may end, as shown in 627.

[0056] In embodiments of the present invention, the player may select amulti-play option for the multi-featured game of chance. Assuming thatthe multi-play option is selected by the player, the flow chart shown inFIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary processing method that may be used todetermine whether the issued ticket is a winning ticket based on thedrawing and/or an associated prize for the winning ticket. As shown in805, it may be determined whether at least one number drawn is selectedon the ticket. If at least one number drawn is selected on the ticket,the ticket may be declared as a winning ticket as shown in 806. If not,the process may end and no prize may be awarded. The winning multi-playticket may be redeemed for a corresponding prize.

[0057] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, it maybe determined whether at least two numbers drawn are selected on theissued ticket, as shown in 810. If at least two numbers drawn areselected on the issued ticket, the ticket may be declared as a winningticket, as shown in 811. The winning multi-play ticket may be redeemedfor a corresponding prize.

[0058] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, it maybe determined whether at least two numbers drawn in the N-number game ofchance match the position as corresponding matching numbers selected onthe issued ticket, as shown in 820. If at least at least two numbersdrawn in the N-number game of chance match the position as correspondingmatching numbers selected on the issued ticket, the ticket may bedeclared as a winning ticket, as shown in 821. The winning multi-playticket may be redeemed for a corresponding prize.

[0059] In embodiments of the present invention, it may be determined ifat least two numbers drawn are the same and if the drawn numbers appearon the issued ticket. If so, the ticket may be declared as a winningticket. The winning multi-play ticket may be redeemed for acorresponding prize.

[0060] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a multi-featuregame that may include additional features, more opportunities to play,increased values of prizes awarded and/or increased chances for playersto win prizes. In embodiments of the present invention, a player mayhave the option of playing multiple games in a single ticket and/orplay.

[0061] Several embodiments of the present invention are specificallyillustrated and/or described herein. However, it will be appreciatedthat modifications and variations of the present invention are coveredby the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claimswithout departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in anillustrative rather than restrictive sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for facilitating play in a multi-featuregame of chance, the method comprising: determining which game type froma plurality of available game types was selected in the multi-featuregame of chance, wherein the plurality of available game types includesan N digit game, a N−1 digit game or a N−2 digit game; determining whichgame option from a plurality of game options was selected in themulti-feature game of chance; based on the selected game type andselected game option, determining whether a selected set of digits on aticket match a drawn set of digits; and if the selected set of digits onthe ticket match a drawn set of digits based on the selected game typeand the selected game option, declaring the ticket as a winning ticket.2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of game options includesan in order option and an any order option.
 3. The method of claim 2,wherein if the in order option is selected, the method furthercomprises: determining whether a selected set of N digits matches thedrawn set of digits in order.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein if theany order option is selected, the method further comprises: determiningwhether a selected set of N digits matches the drawn set of digits inany order.
 5. The method of claim 2, wherein if the in order option isselected, the method further comprises: determining whether a selectedset of N−1 digits matches corresponding drawn set of digits in order. 6.The method of claim 2, wherein if the any order option is selected, themethod further comprises: determining whether a selected set of N−1digits matches the drawn set of digits in any order.
 7. The method ofclaim 2, wherein if the any order option is selected, the method furthercomprises: determining whether a selected set of N−2 digit matches thedrawn set of digits in any order.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein theN digit game includes a three digit game.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the plurality of available game types includes a one digit game.10. A system for facilitating play in a game of chance, comprising: aclient terminal to issue a ticket for a multi-featured game of chance;and a server coupled to the client terminal via a network, the serverto: determine which game type from a plurality of available game typeswas selected in the multi-feature game of chance, wherein the pluralityof available game types include an N digit game, a N−1 digit game or aN−2 digit game; determine which game option from a plurality of gameoptions was selected in the multi-feature game of chance; based on theselected game type and selected game option, determine whether aselected set of digits on a ticket match a drawn set of digits; and ifthe selected set of digits on the ticket match a drawn set of digitsbased on the selected game type and the selected game option, declarethe ticket as a winning ticket.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein theserver is to further: determine whether a selected set of N digitsmatches the drawn set of digits in order.
 12. The system of claim 10,wherein the server is to further: determine whether a selected set of Ndigits matches the drawn set of digits in any order.
 13. The system ofclaim 10, wherein the server is to further: determine whether a selectedset of N−1 digits matches corresponding drawn set of digits in order.14. The system of claim 10, wherein the server is to further: determinewhether a selected set of N−1 digits matches the drawn set of digits inany order.
 15. The system of claim 10, wherein the server is to further:determine whether a selected set of N−2 digit matches the drawn set ofdigits in any order.
 16. A method of determining winners of a game ofchance, comprising: determining if at least one number drawn in amulti-number game of chance drawing is selected on a ticket; anddeclaring the ticket is a winning ticket if at least one number drawn inthe multi-number game of chance drawing is selected on the ticket. 17.The method of claim 16, wherein the ticket is included in an electronicmedia.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the ticket is included in aphysical media.
 19. The method of claim 16, further comprises:determining if at least two numbers drawn in the multi-number game ofchance drawing are selected on the ticket.
 20. The method of claim 19,further comprises: declaring the ticket as a winning ticket if at leasttwo numbers drawn in the multi-number game of chance drawing areselected on the ticket.
 21. The method of claim 19, further comprising:determining if the at least two numbers drawn in the multi-number gameof chance drawing match the position as corresponding matching numbersselected on the ticket; and declaring the ticket as a winning ticket ifat least two numbers drawn in the multi-number game of chance drawingmatch the position of the corresponding numbers selected on the ticket.22. The method of claim 19, further comprising: determining if the atleast two numbers drawn are the same; declaring the ticket as a winningticket if the ticket includes the same two numbers drawn.
 23. A methodfor facilitating play in a game of chance, comprising: issuing a ticketfor an N-number game of chance; drawing a plurality of numbers for theN-number game of chance; receiving the ticket for redemption;determining whether the ticket was issued with a multi-play option;determining if at least one number drawn in the plurality of numbersdrawn is included on the issued ticket; redeeming the ticket for a firstprize if the ticket was issued with the multi-play option and the atleast one number drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn is included onthe issued ticket; determining if at least two numbers drawn in theplurality of numbers drawn are included on the issued ticket; redeemingthe ticket for a second prize if the ticket was issued with themulti-play option and the at least two numbers drawn in the plurality ofnumbers drawn are included on the issued ticket; determining if the atleast two numbers drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn match withpositions as corresponding matching numbers included on the issuedticket; and redeeming the ticket for a third prize if the ticket wasissued with the multi-play option and the at least two numbers drawn inthe plurality of numbers drawn match with positions as correspondingmatching numbers included on the issued ticket.
 24. The method of claim23, wherein the ticket is included in an electronic media.
 25. Themethod of claim 23, wherein the ticket included in a physical media. 26.The method of claim 23, wherein the N-number game of chance is a pickthree numbers game.
 27. The method of claim 23, wherein the N-numbergame of chance is a pick four numbers game.
 28. The method of claim 23,wherein the N-number game of chance is a pick five numbers game.
 29. Themethod of claim 23, further comprising: determining if the at least twonumbers drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn are the same; redeemingthe ticket for a fourth prize if the ticket was issued with the same twonumbers drawn.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein first prize is higherin value than the second prize.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein thesecond prize is higher in value than the third prize.
 32. The method ofclaim 31, wherein the third prize is higher in value than the fourthprize.
 33. A system for facilitating play in a game of chance,comprising: a client terminal to issue a ticket for an N-number game ofchance; and a server coupled to the client terminal via a network,wherein the server is to: authorize redemption of the ticket for a firstprize if the issued ticket was issued with a multi-play option and if atleast one number drawn in a plurality of numbers drawn is included onthe issued ticket, authorize redemption of the ticket for a second prizeif the issued ticket was issued with a multi-play option and at leasttwo numbers drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn are included on theissued ticket; authorize redemption of the ticket for a third prize ifthe issued ticket was issued with a multi-play option and at least twonumbers drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn match with positions ascorresponding matching numbers included on the issued ticket.
 34. Thesystem of claim 33, wherein the server is to further: determine if theat least two numbers drawn in the plurality of numbers drawn are thesame; authorize redemption of the ticket for a fourth prize if theissued ticket was issued with a multi-play option and if the ticket wasissued with the same two numbers drawn.
 35. A method for playing a gameof chance comprising: selecting a game option from a plurality of gameoptions to play in the game of chance, wherein one option in theplurality of game options in the game provides an N number game andanother option in the game provides a one number game; and selecting oneor more numbers to be played, wherein the one or more numbers areselected based on the selected game option.
 36. The method of claim 35,wherein N is any integer greater than
 1. 37. The method of claim 35,further comprising: selecting an amount to wager.
 38. The method ofclaim 37, further comprising: collecting a prize based on the amount ofthe wager.
 39. The method of claim 38, wherein a value of the prizeincreases as the amount of the wager increases.
 40. The method of claim38, further comprising: collecting a prize based on the selected gameoption.
 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the prize varies based onthe game option selected.
 42. The method of claim 35, wherein the one ormore numbers are selected automatically for a player of the game. 43.The method of claim 35, wherein the one or more numbers are selected bya player of the game.
 44. The method of claim 35, wherein the N numbergame is a three number game.
 45. The method of claim 35, wherein the Nnumber game is a four number game.
 46. The method of claim 35, furthercomprising: if more than one number is selected for play, selecting thenumbers to be played in order.
 47. The method of claim 35, furthercomprising: selecting the numbers to be played in any order.